THE HEADLINE acts for this year's Community Carnival have been announced.

Following a competition, judges of this year’s Maddison Lyonette Young Music Award said they were so impressed with the applicants that they were unable to identify a clear winner.

They have decided to split the award between Coated Ambassador, a three-piece Rock Band taking influence from bands such as Creedence Clearwater Revival, Kansas, Biffy Clyro and Foals, and singer songwriter Jodie Nicholson, known for her emotive lyrics and soulful performances.

The Northern Echo:

The Award was established in memory of two former councillors who were original figures behind the carnvial.

Jackie Maddison, who died in 2012, had chaired the Carnival for over twenty years and Joe Lyonette, who died in 2015, had organised the music stage at the carnival for many years.

Carnival activities begin in the Market Square at 9.45am and in Stanhope Park at 10am on Saturday June 29.

The carnival parade leaves the square at 11:00 am, and works its way through the town to Stanhope Park where the carnival continues with stalls, music and other activities throughout the afternoon.

Mainstage acts start at 12pm with a half-hour slot from The Forum’s ‘Song Club Sessions’, where up-and-coming musicians will perform a selection of covers.

At 12.45pm there will be a set by The Existentials, a new indie rock band from Darlington performing their own material.

Performing at 1.30pm is There There, a two-piece indie band, followed by rapper and winner of last year's Maddison Lyonette Award winner Endem at 2.15pm.

Around 2.55pm will see The Vellacos who will play alternative rock, followed by the two headlining acts.

The two acts will close the mainstage, finishing at aound 4.40pm.

Other events at the Carnival include a Salsa Picnic and dance performances outside Peas Monument.